Best 10 Media Streaming Players You Can Buy Now in 2018

As long as streaming is concerned, you will agree that we’ve come a long way. Nowadays you do not have to spend a fortune in order to get a smart TV to access services from top networks such as Amazon, Netflix, BBC iPlayer, among others. All you need is get yourself a streaming media player – this is a device which can help your television connect to the internet and access paid or free online service, hence allowing you to easily watch your favorite videos and also listen to your favorite music tracks. The fact is that one in five households in the United States has cut the cord and have decided to set their television boxes free – you shouldn’t be left behind.

Over the years, streaming media players have evolved in order to meet the increasing demand. Manufacturers have made their streaming devices small and much faster, and even equipped them with dazzling new improved features which place most standard DVRs to shame.

However, there are so many streaming media players available on the market today, each offering something unique than the other, hence making it more competitive than the other. Whereas for those who’ve streaming services for a long time are already familiar with these streaming, it can be remarkably overwhelming for the newcomers choosing the right device that meets their needs and budget. To make their life much more comfortable, we have prepared this comprehensive review article listing Best 10 Streaming Media Players which are available out there today. Hopefully, you’ll find the right match to purchase your desired one.

Detail Analysis of Each Media Streaming Player for 2018 and 2019

(NOTE: Some of these products are not on amazon, therefore are not included below here)

1. Roku Streaming Stick Plus

Roku streaming devices are the most popular dedicated and top-selling TV media players available on the market today. The fact is that Roku has been the leader in the streaming devices market for quite a long time, mostly because they are committed to serving the low-end market with inexpensive streaming boxes. Moreover, it supports virtually every streaming services you can think of. The Roku Streaming Stick Plus is compatible with the primary media streaming boxes, and the impressive part is that the newest version features a 4K High-Definition capability in order to provide you super-clear pictures and videos.

For starters, this streaming media player is incredibly portable and compact, and also comes with remote control – this is somewhat surprising because you are paying so less for so many amazing features. At a glance, you will think that there is not much new about the Roku Streaming Stick Plus, but then you will be surprised to realize that this streaming box is one of the most responsive media players that we have seen till date – which means right that from the streaming to the interface, everything is well done and very polished.

Additionally, this streaming box is less expensive (retailing for a cool $70) compared to the bigger devices, thus making one of the affordable streaming players which you might want to consider. When it comes to the design of this device, it’s shiny, long, and ambiguously cylindrical – this device is a little longer than the previous models, hence meaning that it might stick out a bit if your HDMI port is near the edge of your television. The HDMI extension cable doesn’t come included in the package, so you might want to order one free from the Roku’s website, although it is not ideal. The Stick Plus comes fitted with one port only, which can be used to power the device via your TV’s USB socket – this makes it more convenient than its competitors. Roku Streaming Stick Plus used the mini USB to USB connection, but the cord included in the package features an integrated wireless amplifier which helps increase the Wi-Fi strength.

Over the years, the Roku’s remote has been improved drastically, and now it boasts a comfortable matte finish and a useful assortment of buttons. The only drawback is that this remote doesn’t have a private listening jack, as like other remotes from Roku has. Additionally, the Roku platform boasts more than 500,000+ movies and TV episodes and also allows you to search your favorite shows across the 500+ channels. You should be aware that the Roku’s mobile app serves as both a convenient remote control replacement and a fundamental way broadcast your own music, videos, and pictures to the TV screen.

Pros

Cons

The device is inexpensive.

The device supports full 4K HDR capabilities.

The interface is customizable.

The device is USB powered.

It offers stable connection and fast operation.

The remote doesn’t have an audio jack.

It lacks ethernet connection.

2. Amazon Fire TV Stick with Alexa Voice Remote

The Amazon Fire TV Stick is one of the best-selling and top-rated streaming media players available out there. The Amazon Fire TV Stick is the company’s 2 ND Generation device and one of the cheapest video streaming devices you will ever find on the market today. At the period of writing, this product had garnered more than 157,000 customers reviews with 4.4 out of 5 stars positive rating. Considering its customer reviews and its positive rating, it is the most prominent selling Amazon-branded product of all time. Indeed, it would be the next to get Alexa – the new model gets an improved experience to an extension it can do things even which Echo cannot.

When you compare its design with that of the Roku Streaming Plus, you will realize that instead of a large USB stick design, this device features a compact square box which connects to your television with flexible, short HDMI cable. Unlike the Roku Streaming Plus, this streaming box cannot be powered by your TV’s USB port. Another impressive thing about the Amazon Fire TV Stick is that it can be almost invisible hanging it behind your television. Its main connection is wi-fi, where we discovered a bit of an improvement over the last generation of the Fire TV Stick. The wi-fi connection has been upgraded from 802.11n to the faster dual-band 802.11ac – this allows you to stream your content as quickly as possible. Additionally, its CPU has also been advanced, and it now uses MediaTek Quad-Core ARM 1.3GHz processor. Other improvements included Bluetooth 4.1 connectivity and Dolby 5.1 Surround Sound. Overall, the Amazon Fire TV Stick is an incredibly advanced streaming media player that you should purchase.

When it comes to setting up this streaming box, it is remarkably simple. You only need to plug it into the spare HDMI slot on your television and its USB cord into the power source. And some on-the-screen instructions will get the Alexa remote paired, and your Amazon Fire TV Stick connected to your home network. Once you are signed in your Amazon account, you are ready to go. Now you can use the included Alexa Voice Remote to find the best way to watch across over 190 channels and apps with the universal search. You can also use Alexa to check the weather, control smart home kit, or even set a time. Moreover, with access to Hulu, Netflix, HBO NOW, Amazon Video, and many others – there are more than 500,000 TV episodes and movies ready to stream. You can even watch live TV including sports and news as they occur.

The voice recognition is remarkably accurate, and now Alexa can handle the natural language without any challenges. In addition, you can use Alexa to control playback when watching and listening to your favorite music and movies. Another impressive thing about the Amazon Fire TV Stick is its capability to output video in 4K at 60 frames per second – with the HDR hopping in for the ride in the form of HDR10, though there lacks the Dolby Vision support here. Therefore, it allows you to enjoy 4K HDR content on the likes of YouTube, Netflix, and Amazon Video.

Pros

Cons

This device supports HDR10.

The interface is much-improved and incredibly easy to use.

The Amazon Fire TV Stick is reasonably priced.

The Alexa voice command works very well.

It offers excellent picture quality.

It is remarkably stable and faster at accessing content, as long as you have a secure wi-fi connection.

This device is aimed heavily at the Amazon Primer subscribers.

Some Alexa results could be improved.

3. Apple TV 4th Generation

Apple has always been recognized as a brand which has done so many astonishing things when it comes to the tech industry, and since they still commit themselves towards their products, and they don’t compromise with quality. Now Apple has introduced their own Apple TV 4th Generation Streaming Media Player to the market. Ideally speaking, we can say Apple is a bit late to the party because Amazon Fire TV, Chromecast, and Roku have all supported 4K for quite some time now – but we would suggest that Apple took their time to make a fantastic streaming media player since the 4K HDR content has not been broadly available until now.

The Apple TV 4K streaming device may not be perfect, but it features several vital things which makes it more competitive than other media players. Instead, it offers you the option to pick from Apple’s content providers, and if you don’t want that, you can always opt for other services such as Hulu, HBO, Netflix, and many others. However, you should be aware that these services are not offered to you for free, so you will want to pay for them separately. The fact is that the Apple TV 4K provides a few apps at a high price compared to other devices as Amazon Fire Stick which offers a lot of amazing features at an affordable price. Additionally, this streaming box can handle all the 4K content, and can also support HDR10 and Dolby Vision.

The new streaming box features two storage options; 32GB and 64GB. However, unless you intend on going heavy on the apps, the 32GB storage option should work just fine for most people. In addition, the Apple TV 4K supports audio streaming via Apple music – but you should remember that that is the only way you will be able to stream music.

Another fascinating feature is the Siri remote control which comes included in the set. Most people are familiar with the Apple’s digital voice assistant already – Siri has been available on the Apple TV for quite some time now. The Siri in the Apple TV 4K is very beneficial – you can ask questions or ask Siri to remind you to do something. You don’t have to type out search questing or even mashing the control buttons anymore. One of the Siri most helpful applications is finding the content you would like to watch, explicitly getting HDR and 4K content. The Apple TV 4K is remarkably faster, thanks to its A10X Fusion Processor equipped inside the device – hence allowing you to enjoy more productive and more interactive games and apps.

4. Google Chromecast

The Google Chromecast is one of the best-selling and affordably-priced streaming media players worth considering. It has been on the market for quite some time now and judging by the look of things and how they’re going, it’s okay to say they’re only getting better. For those who don’t have much idea about this streaming device, Google launched the original Chromecast back in 2013, and since then, the brand has been introducing new and upgraded models of the device. The second-gen Chromecast was released towards the end of 2015, and it is a fantastic streaming device and is still going strong. Although it is facing stiff competition from its rivals such as the Amazon Fire TV Stick and Roku Express – which are the latest devices that provide crisp 1080p streaming.

The most exciting thing about the Google Chromecast is its price – the device is a genuine bargain at only $35 – which is the main selling point of this device. For those who do not have any idea, this accessory it is probably the cheapest streaming media devices available on the market today. Whereas most individuals may think that being inexpensive isn’t a great idea, but the fact is that it is typically very beneficial because it is accessible to so many folks than many would imagine.

As far as the design of the device is concerned, the Google Chromecast looks dramatically different to the original model with the company opting for the hockey-puck style round build. This device features a standard plastic body featuring a Chrome logo, plus it comes in different colors, hence allowing you to choose the color that meets your taste and preference. Additionally, the build makes more sense with the flexible cable attached. Google has made things simpler since there is a magnet which you can use to hold the primary body to the HDMI plug. When not using the plug, it folds conveniently against the back of the device.

Setting up the Google Chromecast is remarkably effortless and quick since it doesn’t need lots of setup or even the use of messy cables. You only need to attach the power cable and then install the Chromecast app on your laptop, smartphone, or tablet. Once installed the Home App, you can now power it app from there, and simply follow the on-screen instructions to connect your streaming device to your home wi-fi network, and pair it with your Google Chromecast. Once this is finished, you can now enjoy streaming videos and shows on YouTube or Netflix.

Furthermore, Google claims that the Chromecast 2 features upgraded wi-fi architecture with an integrated adaptive antenna system. This streaming media player can support 802.11ac dual-band wireless connectivity. A new feature which the Chromecast includes is “fast play” technology which helps speed up the period it takes for you to stream content – according to Google; it supports up to 80 percent faster. Moreover, using the Chromecast has been incredibly more uncomplicated. It is compatible with a wide range of devices, which includes Android 4.1 and above, Mac OS 10.7 and above, iOS 7 and above, Windows 7 and above, and Chrome OS. Just like on AirPlay and Apple TV, in order to cast to Google Chromecast, you merely have to tap the Cast button (a small, square with a wi-fi symbol in the corner), and choose the device you would like to stream to.

Pros

Cons

This streaming device is incredibly budget-friendly.

It is very easy to set up and operate.

The wi-fi connectivity have been improved.

This device supports from a vast array of streaming apps.

The design is compact and versatile.

It needs computer or mobile device to operate

Gaming is a bit weak.

5. NVIDIA SHIELD TV

If you are looking for a 4K HDR media streaming device which can also help stream games for both your PC and the cloud, then the Nvidia Shield TV is by far the best buy for you. In fact, it is your only option. The Nvidia’s new Shield TV streamer was released to the market in 2017, and is recognized to be smaller and also houses some unique improved features which make it more competitive out there. Moreover, this streaming box is far way better than it was when the gaming-centric streaming device was launched about three years ago. For those who are familiar with the previous Nvidia’s Shield TV streaming device, you very well know that it was nothing but a sort of a disappointment.

However, the Nvidia Shield TV is a bit expensive but really, really good. You may be asking yourself what is so special about the new Nvidia Shield TV. For starters, it is one of the very few media streaming devices which provides nearly every single streaming service, including the Amazon Video. Besides that, it allows its user to stream both at 4K and HDR video quality. Plus, it has a remarkably good controller and also comes along with powerful hardware.

When it comes to its design, the Nvidia Shield TV looks almost identical to the old model with an angular build and a mix of shiny and matte surfaces for a smooth and attractive appearance. However, this streaming device is much smaller and compact than the original. The first-gen shield TV measured 21cm x 13cm x 2.5cm and the second-gen Shield Tv measures 16cm x 9.9cm x 2.5cm. In addition, this video streamer features plenty of ports. Besides ports for HDMI and power, you will find two USB port and Ethernet port at the expense of a Micro-USB and Micro-SD ports from its predecessor. By default, the Nvidia Shield TV spots 3GB of RAM inside the hood with 16GB of internal storage to back it up with – plus, you can pay an extra $100 for a total 500GB.

The Google Assistant allows you to control every experience with just the sound of your voice. You can even add SmartThings Link to wirelessly connect and automate hundreds of compatible smart devices, enabling them all to work together with simple voice commands. Moreover, there is the controller – Nvidia claims that the controllers are rated for about 60 hours of battery life, and turns itself off when not using it to save on power. However, if you have used another Android TV player before, you will not be amazed to learn that the second-gen shield TV features access to all the usual suspects: YouTube, Hulu, Netflix, Plex, Vudu, Pandora, Sling, among others. You should be aware that the Nvidia Shield TV features Google Cast features – this means that whatever the Google Chromecast can do, the new Shield TV can do as well.

Pros

Cons

It has lots of features to load.

This device supports streaming in both 4K and HDR capability.

The controller is much comfortable compared to the last one.

The Google Assistant is very helpful.

It is extremely compact.

It comes included with lots of apps, such as Amazon Video.

It is expensive for a 4K streamer.

6. Roku Premier Plus – HD and 4K UHD Streaming Media Player with HDR

Not so many individuals who know but as far as streaming media is concerned, there aren’t a lot of companies which are as good as Roku. Roku has gained a fantastic reputation due to their production of quality products, and the Roku Premier Plus is no exception. The Roku Premier Plus is one of their high-end devices which are aimed towards those who would like the best of both worlds. It allows you to access a plethora of both 4K and HDR content on your television. In addition to the HD viewing experience, the volume of content which is offered by the Roku Premier Plus is a lot more than what the competition has to provide. It allows you to access to more than 500,000 movies and TV episodes across over 5,000 paid or free channels. Even if you do not have a 4k set, this media player is capable of upscaling 1080p to 4K UHD TVs and 720p to 1080p on HDTVs. Therefore, you are still going to get a crisper and sharp image on your screen no matter what.

The wired ethernet port equipped with this device makes sure that your connection streams seamlessly without any challenges. This helps prevent annoying lag time from the device which typically relies on wi-fi that goes in and out. The Roku Premier Plus steams on dual-band networks at 10/100 Mbps. When it comes to ports, the media player comes equipped with a Micro-SD card slot for additional storage of casual games and apps.

Pros

Cons

The remote features a headphone hack which allows private listening.

The ecosystem of Roku provides more apps, better search, as well as more customization than any other.

It offers a robust 4K and HDR performance.

This device is remarkably easy to use and set up.

The ethernet port allows 4k streaming without any interruptions.

It lacks microphone on the remote for voice search.

It does not work with the Dolby Vision HDR.

7. Roku Express

The Roku Express is one of the best-selling and affordably-priced streaming media players you are going to find on the market today. This streaming device is undoubtedly the best option if you are looking for a device that features all the major video streaming apps in one place at an affordable price. Having recently refreshed Roku’s lineup to only two products, it now offers Streaming Stick Plus for ultra-high resolution for those looking for 4K and HDR capabilities, and the Roku Express is a complete HD streaming media device which provides all manner of streaming media services to non-smart televisions, including Amazon Prime, BBC iPlayer, Netflix, YouTube, among others. Therefore, as long as aren’t coveting 4K and HDR capabilities, then you will find Roku Express a better value for under $35.

When it comes to its design, the whole device is nearly as long as an index finger and twice as thick. You will be surprised to notice that the remote is bigger than the streaming box itself. The Roku Express comes fitted with only two ports: HDMI port and MicroSD 2.0 port for power. The streaming device lacks Ethernet connectivity for a more stable service, and it also means no VGA cables for other devices. However, considering its affordable price, the wireless functionality of this device is also cut-rate since it supports the old 802.11 b/g/n specification – and not the faster dual-band wireless network support of 802.11ac in the Roku Streaming Stick. The processor.

When it comes to setting up this device, it is effortless with the included HDMI cable. The intuitive user-interface makes it remarkably easy to search across the top channels and stream all your favorite channels and tv shows from the home screen. Moreover, with Roku Express, you can still enjoy access to more than 450,000 movies, and TV episodes across the 4,500+ paid of free channels, which includes, Amazon Video, Hulu, Netflix, YouTube, PBS KIDS, Sling TV, VDU, among others.

Pros

Cons

This streaming device is budget-friendly.

It offers comprehensive search function.

It is easy to set up and use.

It has great companion/smartphone app.

It offers extensive channel library.

It is a bit slower than the other Rokus products in its lineup.

It lacks Ethernet port – restricted to wi-fi connection only.

It doesn’t support 4K and HDR capabilities.

8. TiVo Roamio OTA 1 TB DVR and Streaming Media Player

If you are looking to cut the cord without losing your cable DVR experience, then the TiVo Roamio OTA is an excellent option for you. The TiVo Roamio OTA 1 TB DVR is the best over-the-air DVR device for recording your favorite TV shows, movies, and sports from the TV antenna. The best thing which has made this streaming media device stand out over a couple of years is that there are no monthly subscriptions for the DVR functions or channel guide. Not only does it allow you to record content from the TV antenna or stream video services, but it’s powerful enough to keep up with your home.

This streaming media player also comes equipped with a standard 1 TB internal hard drive. This means it can record up to 150 hours of high-definition content or up to 1,000 hours of the standard-definition content. In addition to that, this device features four tuners, which allows you to watch and record multiple programs at the same time. Undoubtedly, the TiVo Roamio OTA is the most economical premium Tv experience you are going to find on the market today. Another exciting thing about the TiVo Roamio OTA is that it comes equipped with numerous ports, which allows you to connect as you would like. This streaming device comes fitted with a USB port for external storage, and other ports which include Ethernet, HDMI, coaxial, and composite video ports.

Moreover, the TiVo Roamio OTA offers you a two-week program guide which allows you to see what is coming up. In addition, it comes equipped with all the features you could ever expect in a streaming device, including SkipMode and QuickMode.

It supports a wide range of streaming options, including Amazon Prime, VUDU, Hulu, Netflix, and many more.

It comes equipped with a 1 TB internal storage, and also allows you to watch and record up to four shows simultaneously.

The user-interface could have been better.

9. The Boxee Box by D-Link HD Streaming Media Player

The D-Link Boxee Box is one of the best HD streaming media players worth considering. However, unlike other streaming media players out there today, the D-Link Boxee Box is video streamer in its own world. The first impression when unboxing this device is its odd/uneven shape which makes it stand out from other streaming boxes. It is rectangular-shaped or square-shaped; instead it looks to be meant to seem like a cube which has embedded itself into whichever surface you place it on. Additionally, the D-Link Boxee Box has been specially designed to run the Boxee interface program. It comes fitted with a whisper quiet Intel Atom-based CE4100 Chipset with adequate horsepower to potentially do away with the dedicated media PC.

The D-Link Boxee Box is incredibly easy to set up and operate – you merely need to connect it to your television via the HDMI input, and also require a stable wi-fi connection. This device also comes equipped with a wide variety of ports, which includes Micro-SD card slot, two USB ports, HDMI output, an optical digital connector, and an 802.11n wi-fi- equipped Ethernet port – overall, there is not much that the D-Link Boxee Box cannot plug into. This streaming media player provides more than 3,000 high-definition movies and TV shows which keeps you entertained every time you switch it on.

Another exciting touch about this product is the remote control it comes included with. The RF remote is one of the biggest blessings of this device – there is a simple D-pad on one side with play or pause and back buttons, and on the other, it has a complete Qwerty keyboard. The keyboard makes it remarkably easy when typing in web addresses, wi-fi passwords, and even searching the integrated apps like YouTube, BBC iPlayer, Netflix, Pandora, Vimeo, among others.

Pros

Cons

It allows HD streaming.

The RF remote comes fitted with a full QWERTY keyboard.

The HDMI cable comes included in the set.

It comes with a one-year limited manufacturer warranty.

The user-interface needs to be improved.

The awkward physical design makes it challenging to find it a spot.

10. Roku 4 4400R 4K UHD Streaming Media Player

The Roku 4 4400R 4K is yet another quality streaming media player from Roku. Roku is well-reputed brand and is considered one of the best manufacturers as far as media streaming devices are concerned. Additionally, the Roku 4 4400R is an astonishing 4K ultra-HD media streamer, and as long as we are concerned, this media streaming box is more well-round and more open than other products that the company has released before – borrowing from its prototype and even adding more to its bequest in equal measure.

The Roku 4 4400R is faster since it comes equipped with the latest quad-core processor which supports 4k video streaming at 60 frames per second. The universal search function makes it more well-rounded and allows you to access content from numerous services, including Amazon Prime Instant Video, Netflix, Vudu, YouTube, among others. For ports, this device includes an HDMI 2.0a port (that supports HCP 2.2), a USB 2.0 port, and 10/100 base-T Ethernet ports. In addition, it sports a micro-SD card slot which supports up to 128GB of external storage. Speaking of the remote, it is almost identical to the that of its predecessor, Roku 3. It sports gamepad like directional arrows, voice search button, and buttons on the bottom for apps such as Amazon, Netflix, Sling TV, and Rdio. And of course, Roku is still maintaining the headphone jack for private listening and bundled earbuds.

Additionally, the Roku 4 4400R offers you access to more than 2,500 channels, so you have got a long list of entertainment to choose from, including your favorite movies, music, TV shows, news, sports, kids programming, and many more. Besides that, you can upscale your favorite videos as you stream – scale up to 720p high-definition video for TV and 1080p pixels to 4K ultra HD on 4K-enabled televisions. The Roku 4 4400R can also handle your personal library of the UHD video, either through the Roku media play application or Plex.
.

Pros

Cons

This streaming device supports 4H ultra HD content with HDCP 2.2.

It is remarkably fast and easy to use.

It offers a wide variety of apps.

The voice search function is stable and convenient.

The operating system is incredible.

It doesn’t support HDR.

Some applications feel a bit dated.

Conclusion
So many people are cutting the cord due to costly cable fees and satellite subscriptions. However, the streaming media players have overly dominated the internet today – this makes it quite an overwhelming process making an informed decision.

With the user-friendly, Roku media streaming player is an excellent choice for you if you are looking for a way to make your digital life more interesting for its supports the major selection of streaming content. Moreover, if you would like to stream Amazon content to your HDTV, then the Amazon Fire TV will be your best buy that meets your needs.